Part-Time Trauma-Informed Shelter Support Specialist

Safeharborsc; Anderson (SC); On-site; USD 17,000 - 25,000; Part time

Job summary

Safe Harbor seeks a part-time Client Support Specialist to provide trauma-informed support and help maintain a structured, welcoming shelter environment. You will carry a client caseload, engage with residents, and reinforce shelter expectations during daily routines.

Responsibilities include documenting interactions, coordinating with the Shelter Operations team, and assisting with orientation and crisis de-escalation as needed.

Qualifications

• 1–2 years of experience in shelter, residential, or communal living environments preferred.
• Trauma-informed care and structured support approaches.
• Strong communication, documentation, and follow-through skills.
• Computer literacy including Microsoft Office for documentation and internal communication.
• High school diploma or GED required.
• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation.

Responsibilities

• Carry a caseload of assigned clients and provide consistent, trauma-informed support focused on shelter engagement, community living expectations, and emotional well-being.
• Offer regular check-ins, structure reminders, and behavioral guidance related to shared space use, boundaries, and routines.
• Support clients in adjusting to the shelter environment through emotional presence, structure reinforcement, and clear communication.
• Refer clients to the Advocacy Team for needs related to advocacy services.
• Document all support interactions accurately and in a timely manner.
• Observe and report emerging client patterns related to communal living, safety, or emotional regulation.
• Maintain awareness of assigned clients' shelter experience and provide timely follow-up on behavioral concerns, emotional needs, or program engagement.
• Maintains professional boundaries with clients while offering respectful, nonjudgmental support in daily shelter routines.
• Collaborate with supervisors to adjust support strategies when ongoing concerns arise.
• Respond calmly to moments of emotional distress, using de-escalation techniques when appropriate and promptly notifying leadership of safety concerns.
• Process new arrivals during assigned shifts by completing initial documentation, reviewing expectations, and assisting with orientation.
• Participate in room preparation and initial walkthroughs to ensure space readiness for each client.
• Provide welcoming, trauma-informed introductions to shelter routines and shared living expectations.
• Document all relevant client interactions, incidents, or shelter concerns using agency-approved systems.
• Report emerging client patterns, concerns, or follow-up needs to Shelter Operations leadership.
• Respond to helpline calls in accordance with agency procedures and trauma-informed practices.
• Follow up on assigned tasks and ensure documentation is completed accurately and on time.
• Demonstrates reliability by completing assigned tasks within expected timeframes and notifying the supervisor of any delays or barriers.

Skills

Trauma-informed care

Strong communication

Documentation

Caseload management

Microsoft Office

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

Microsoft Office

Client databases

Job description

Safe Harbor seeks a part-time Client Support Specialist to provide trauma-informed support and help maintain a structured, welcoming shelter environment. You will carry a client caseload, engage with residents, and reinforce shelter expectations during daily routines.

Responsibilities include documenting interactions, coordinating with the Shelter Operations team, and assisting with orientation and crisis de-escalation as needed.